Why might state management in Shopify themes require JavaScript?

State management in Shopify themes requires JavaScript because Liquid, the templating language used in Shopify, is primarily a server-side language that generates HTML at render time. Liquid processes data on the server and does not have the capability to respond to dynamic client-side events or interactions that occur after the page has loaded.

JavaScript, on the other hand, is a client-side scripting language that allows developers to create dynamic and interactive experiences within the browser. By using JavaScript, developers can manage changes to the user interface based on user actions, such as updating the cart, changing product options, or responding to form inputs without requiring a page reload. This capability is essential for maintaining application state, as it allows for a more interactive user experience that can change in real-time.

The other options either misrepresent the functionality of Liquid or incorrectly claim limitations on JavaScript’s role in Shopify themes. Liquid does not track user actions or manage dynamic interactions, JavaScript is indeed allowed and widely used within Shopify, and themes are not built solely on HTML but rather combine Liquid, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create fully functional e-commerce experiences.